Tray table with rotatable inner tray for electronic device docking

ABSTRACT

A tray table that provides in-flight entertainment in various forms of media as well as interactivity while being lightweight is disclosed herein. The tray table may provide a removable battery to power an electronic device. This eliminates the need for costly and heavy wiring. The tray table may provide an inner tray that allows the electronic device to be removed for handheld operation. An alert system may be used to prevent theft or unauthorized used by detecting when the electronic device is outside or disconnected from the inner tray.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/546,969, titled Lightweight Electronic Tray Table, filed Oct. 13,2011.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to seatback tray tables and in particular to atray table with a rotatable inner tray for electronic devices.

2. Related Art

Airplane tray tables have been largely unchanged for decades. Ingeneral, such tray tables move between a stowed upright position and aservice position where a tray table is generally horizontal so thatitems may be supported by the tray table. In the service position, thetray table may be used to support food, drink, and other items for apassenger.

Attempts have been made to update traditional tray tables. For example,U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0126739 discloses a portablecollapsible tray table apparatus configured to provide an elevatedplatform upon which a user's electronic device may be supported. Forinstance, the tray table apparatus may support the user's laptop at anelevated position. The elevated platform may also include a removablepanel that can be removed to reveal an electronic device holder forholding a user's electronic device.

As another example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,500,716 discloses a multi-functiontray table having a slidable portion and an internal stationary portion.The slidable portion extends towards a passenger during use while thestationary portion does not. The stationary portion and the slidingportion are required parts of an elaborate mechanism configured toensure that an entertainment device of the tray table is viewable whenthe tray table is stowed.

From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent that thepresent invention addresses the deficiencies associated with the priorart while providing numerous additional advantages and benefits notcontemplated or possible with prior art constructions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A tray table that provides in-flight entertainment (IFE) while beinglightweight and easy to maintain is provided herein. The tray tableprovides weight savings compared to traditional tray tables or in-flightentertainment systems due to its structure and its internal powersystem. In addition, the tray table may be configured as a selfcontained unit to speed installation and reduce maintenance costs. Forinstance, as will be detailed below, the internal power system of thetray table eliminates the cost and weight of wiring to individualpassenger seats. In instances where airline carriers wish to replaceexisting IFE seat mounted electronic devices and where the power isalready available at the seat, the internal power system can beaugmented by wiring the tray table to a pre-existing power source.

The tray table is also advantageous in that it is capable of housing IFEportable devices for commercial and other aircraft applications, andprovides backup battery power or aircraft power to keep such electronicdevices charged and operational. The electronic devices may communicatewith one or more onboard servers wirelessly or via one or more wiredcommunication links.

As will also be described herein, the tray table also provides a numberof media functions, such as distributing media, advertisements and thelike to passengers. In addition, the tray table may be interactive toallow passengers to view media, order goods or services, play games,communicate with others, and otherwise interact with the tray table.

The tray table may have various embodiments. For example, in oneembodiment a tray table for a passenger seat may be provided. In such anembodiment, the tray table may comprise a body having a compartment fora battery, and an inner tray configured to receive and hold a portableelectronic device with a display screen. A port may be attached to theinner tray to connect to the portable electronic device. The battery maybe in electrical communication with the portable electronic device viathe port. An opening in the body may be configured to accept the innertray, which may be rotatably mounted in the opening. It is contemplatedthat the inner tray may include a transparent cover to protect thedisplay screen.

One or more mounts may attach the body to a back portion of thepassenger seat. The body may be rotatably mounted to the back portion ofthe passenger seat, such as to allow the tray table to be stowed ordeployed.

A sensor configured to detect the presence or absence of the portableelectronic device in the inner tray may be included as well. The traytable may then emit an alert if the sensor detects that the portableelectronic device is absent from the inner tray. It is noted that thisalert may be emitted only at particular times. For example, duringtakeoff and landing of a plane, an alert may be generated if a passengerhas his or her portable electronic device out of its inner tray. Thealert may be transmitted to a flight crew or other personnel or to thepassenger so that someone is aware that the portable electronic deviceneeds to be returned to the inner tray.

It is noted that the battery of the tray table may be rechargeable. Inaddition, the battery may be removable from the body. In this manner, adischarged battery can be easily replaced with a charged battery. Thoughthe portable electronic device may, in some circumstances, have its owninternal power source (e.g., battery), the battery of the tray table maybe used to power or recharge the portable electronic device, such as onlong journeys or flights.

In another exemplary embodiment, a tray table for a passenger seat mightcomprise a body having an opening therein, and one or more mountsconfigured to rotatably attach the body to a back portion of thepassenger seat. The body may be moved between a stowed position and aservice position relative to the passenger seat.

An inner tray may be configured to hold a portable electronic device.The inner tray may be rotatably mounted in the opening, such that, theinner tray may be rotated to between an open position and a closedposition when the body is in the service position. A back panel of theinner tray may be coplanar with a top surface of the body when the innertray is in the closed position. In addition, a display screen of theportable electronic device may be visible through one end of the openingin the body when the inner tray is in the closed position.

The tray table for a passenger seat may also have a battery compartmentin its body, and an electrical connection between the batterycompartment and the inner tray to provide power to the portableelectronic device. As discussed, the battery compartment may beconfigured to releasably hold one or more batteries. An indicatorsupported by the body may be configured to indicate a charge level ofone or more batteries in the battery compartment.

A sensor configured to detect when the portable electronic device isabsent from the inner tray may be provided as well. In such embodiments,a communication device may be included to transmit a notification whenthe sensor detects the portable electronic device is absent from theinner tray.

Various methods relating to the tray table are disclosed herein as well.In one embodiment for example, a method for providing in-flightentertainment with a tray table is provided. Such a method may comprisesecuring a tray table comprising an opening having a rotatable innertray secured therein to a passenger seat with one or more mounts,receiving a portable electronic device with the inner tray, and securingthe portable electronic device to the tray table with the inner tray.

The portable electronic device may be provided with a display screen forproviding the in-flight entertainment, and may be rotatable when held bythe inner tray. Power may be provided to the portable electronic devicethrough one or more batteries in a compartment of the tray table whenthe portable electronic device is held by the inner tray. A media serverconfigured to provide in-flight entertainment material via electroniccommunication with the portable electronic device may be provided aswell. Such server may be installed on the plane or other vehiclecarrying the tray table(s).

It is noted that the batteries may be ejected from the compartment witha release mechanism of the compartment to replace the batteries. A powerlevel indicator configured to indicate the power level of the batteriesin the compartment may be provided as well. This allows the power leverto be readily ascertained so that the batteries may be replaced ifnecessary.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will beor will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination ofthe following figures and detailed description. It is intended that allsuch additional systems, methods, features and advantages be includedwithin this description, be within the scope of the invention, and beprotected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding partsthroughout the different views.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table in a stowedposition;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table in a serviceposition with inter-tray in a closed position;

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table in an openservice position;

FIG. 1D is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table in a serviceposition;

FIG. 1E is a perspective view showing removal of an electronic devicefrom an exemplary tray table;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table and inner tray;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table and inner tray;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table and externalconnection ports;

FIG. 2D is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary tray table showingweep holes;

FIG. 2E is a perspective view of an exemplary tray table and inner tray;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a battery of an exemplary tray table;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a battery of an exemplary tray table inan extending position;

FIG. 3C is a perspective interior layout view an exemplary tray table;

FIG. 3D is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary tray table;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary in-flightentertainment system;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an exemplary headrest mountedelectronic display;

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an exemplary headrest mountedelectronic display in a pivoted position; and

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of an exemplary headrest mounted innertray.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a more thorough description of the present invention.It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that thepresent invention may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known features have not been described in detailso as not to obscure the invention.

The tray table herein enhances the utility of a tray table by providingIFE capabilities, while lowering weight and maintenance costs which willreduce fuel costs and carbon emissions. Though described herein withreference in an airplane environment, it is noted that the tray tablemay be used in various vehicles, such as busses, cars, limousines,trains, and other vehicles. In addition, the tray table may be used inother settings such as waiting rooms, internet kiosks, and the like.

As will be described further below, the tray table also saves in fuelcosts because of the weight savings achieved by its open and lightweightstructure. In addition, the electronic components of the tray table areeasily serviceable and have the significant advantage in that they donot require any additional wiring. This is highly advantageous in thatit avoids the weight of such wiring, the cost of the installation ofsuch wiring, downtime to install the wiring, as well as certification ofan aircraft after such wiring has been installed.

The tray table includes electronic elements for IFE. This is anadvantage in that it eliminates the need to have inflight magazines,brochures, safety manuals and the like on board. This saves weight andthus saves fuel. In addition, maintenance crews no longer need to spendtime replacing old or worn inflight materials ordinarily stored in seatpockets or overhead bins (or elsewhere on an aircraft). On top of this,the printing and distribution costs for such materials is eliminated.

The electronic elements of the tray table also create a more enjoyablepassenger experience. As will be described further below, the tray tablemay be interactive and may be used to present various media, includingmusic, games, and videos, and other digital content to keep passengersentertained. In addition, passengers may use the tray table tocommunicate with flight crews or others via text, audio, video, and thelike. Typically, this interactivity, communication, and media capabilitywill be provided via an electronic device with one or more displayscreens that may be provided with and/or coupled or docked to the traytable.

The tray table will now be described with regard to FIGS. 1A-1E. FIGS.1A-1E provide various views of the tray table 104. As can be seen, theenvironment of use shown is an aircraft passenger seat 128, though thetray table 104 may be used in a variety of vehicles and seats. The traytable 104 may have a stowed position, such as shown in FIG. 1A, and aservice position, such as shown in FIGS. 1B-1C. As can be seen, in theservice position, the tray table 104 may be deployed for use as ahorizontal support surface (for food, drink, etc. . . . ), whileallowing its electronic device 108 to be used if desired. It is notedthat the electronic device 108 may also be used in the stowed position.For example, a user may view advertisements and interact with theelectronic device 108 in the stowed position (as well as in the serviceposition) via a display 136 of the electronic device. As will bedescribed further below, the electronic device 108 may be held in ordock with an inner tray 124 of the tray table 104, which may power orcharge an electronic device 108 through an external port via a batterycharger cable.

The tray table 104 may be movably attached to a passenger seat 128. Inthe embodiments shown for example, the tray table 104 is attached to thepassenger seat 128 with pivoting arms 116 that allow the tray table tobe moved between the stowed and service positions. The tray table 104may be movably attached to a passenger seat 128 (or other seat orstructure) in this and other ways, such as with hinges, pivots, and thelike.

As can be seen, in the stowed position (shown by FIG. 1A), theelectronic device 108 is positioned such that its display 136 is visibleto a passenger through an opening 112 of the tray table 104. In thismanner, the passenger can view various media even when the tray table104 is stowed. For example, one or more advertisements may be presentedto the passenger in the stowed position. These advertisements may bepresented during boarding, taxiing, takeoff, landing, and cruisingaltitude for example. Other media or IFE services/materials may beprovided as well, such as books, magazines, music, and video. Forexample, after the aircraft has reached a particular altitude (such as acruising altitude), this media may be accessible to the passenger.Advertising may still be provided if desired.

In the service position (shown by FIG. 1B), the tray table 104 may beused in a manner similar to a traditional tray table. As can be seen,the back of the inner tray 124 may provide a planar surface that spansthe opening 112 in the tray table 104. In this manner, a continuoussurface can be provided to support food, drink, or other items. As willbe described further below, the inner tray may rotate to conceal andreveal the electronic device 108 it holds.

The opening 112 in the tray table 104 is beneficial in that it resultsin a weight savings since there is no material at that portion of thetray table 104. In addition, the inner tray 124 does not utilize complexand heavy components to accomplish its rotation or movement, as will bedescribed further below. This also helps ensure that the tray table 104has a low overall weight despite having a wide range of media andinteractive capabilities.

Referring to FIG. 1C, operation of the inner tray 124 can be seen. Asshown for instance, the inner tray 124 may rotate within the opening 112of the tray table 104. In FIG. 1C for instance, the inner tray 124 hasbeen tilted back (towards the passenger seat 128) to reveal theelectronic device 108 held by the inner tray. This is an open positionof the inner tray 124. As can be seen, the display 136 of the electronicdevice 108 is held at a comfortable viewing position for the passengerin the open position.

The inner tray 124 may be rotatably mounted to the body 120 of the traytable 104. In this manner, the inner tray 124 can be moved from a closedposition (such as shown in FIG. 1B) to an open position and vice versa.Is some embodiments, the pivot or rotating mount may allow the innertray 124 to rotate a full 360 degrees. For example positioning therotating mount at a midpoint of the inner tray 124 would permit theinner tray to rotate 360 degrees within the opening.

In other embodiments, a reduced angle of rotation may be provided. Oneor more stops may be provided to fix the inner tray 124 at an open orclosed position or at various other angles. For example, the inner tray124 may rotate from a closed position (at 0 degrees), to an openposition less than 180 degrees. In another example embodiment, the innertray may rotate to a maximum of 130 or 140 degrees. The stops mayphysically hold or block rotation of the inner tray at the maximum angleor at various angles in between. This allows a passenger to position theinner tray 124 (and the electronic device 108 held therein) at a desiredviewing angle. The stops may be disengaged to move the inner tray 124 toother positions. It is noted that the rotating mount holding the innertray 124 may utilize a friction hold to hold the inner tray 124 atwhatever angle the passenger moves the inner tray to.

In some embodiments, the rotation of the inner tray 124 may be stoppedby physical contact with a portion of the tray table 104. For instance,as shown in FIG. 1C, the back of the inner tray 124 is in contact with aback section of the tray table 104 thereby stopping the inner tray'sbackward rotation and holding the inner tray (and electronic device 108)in that open position.

Referring to FIG. 1D, it can be seen that the inner tray 124 may allowthe electronic device 108 to be removed so that a passenger may hold theelectronic device in his or her hands during use. This is advantageousin that it causes the electronic device 108 to not be a permanentfixture of the aircraft, while increasing the convenience to passengers.It is noted that the tray table 104 may be configured to inductively orotherwise wirelessly charge the electronic device 108 in someembodiments. Therefore, the electronic device 108 may be charged orpowered by placing it on or near the tray table 104, or in the innertray 124.

The electronic device 108 may be installed or removed in various ways aswill be described below. For instance, FIG. 1E illustrates that theelectronic device 108 may be installed or removed by sliding it into orout of the inner tray 124.

It is contemplated that the electronic device 108 and/or tray table 104may have an alerting mechanism (such as one or more speakers, lights, orthe like) to indicate unauthorized use of the electronic device. Forexample, one or more lights, alarms, sirens or other audiovisual alertsmay be emitted during unauthorized use. To illustrate, an alert may beemitted when the electronic device 108 is not in the inner tray 124during takeoff or landing or at other times when the flight crewrestricts use of the electronic device outside the inner tray. This alsoprevents theft in that an alert will be emitted if the electronic device108 is not within the inner tray 124 during landing. It is noted thatthe flight crew may be alerted as well, such as via a pager, tablet, orother electronic device possessed by members of the flight crew.

The flight crew may activate or deactivate the alarm mechanism, or thealarm mechanism may automatically activate or deactivate such as whenthe aircraft is at or within a particular altitude or range ofaltitudes. A tray table 104 may have its own altimeter for thesepurposes or may receive altitude from an aircraft altimeter eitherthrough a wired or wireless connection. As an additional theft orunauthorized use preventer, the electronic device 108 may also oralternatively be labeled with a warning label cited consequences and/orrules and regulations governing the tampering with or theft of aircraftfixtures.

The inner tray 124 may have one or more switches, contacts, sensors, orthe like to determine whether the electronic device 108 is within theinner tray. In addition, the tray table 104 may have a lock in someembodiments to prevent it from being moved from the stowed position tothe service position. This feature may also be used to prevent theft ofthe electronic device 108.

Further details regarding the tray table 104 will now be described withregard to FIGS. 2A-2C. As can be seen, the tray table 104 may comprise abody 120 having an opening 112 where the inner tray 124 is rotatablymounted. The opening 112 may have one or more mounting structures tohold the inner tray 124. For example, one or more mounts may be at theside walls or sides of the opening. The mounts may engage the inner tray124 to rotatably secure the inner tray. The mounts may be variousstructures. For example, the mounts may be pins, axels, pivots, hingesor the like. In one or more embodiments, a mount may be located at bothsides of the opening 112 to provide the rotation of the inner tray 124as shown in the figures.

The opening 112 may be at various locations of the body 120. Forinstance, as shown in FIG. 2A the opening 112 is centrally located. Thiscenters the inner tray 124 and electronic device. It is contemplatedthat the opening 112 could be at the sides or closer to the sides of thebody 120 in some embodiments.

One or more mounts 220 may be attached to the body 120. This allows thebody 120 and thus the entire tray table 104 to be attached to apassenger seat 128. For example, referring to FIG. 1B, it can be seenthat the mounts 220 may connect one or more supports 116 to the traytable 104 to secure the tray table. The mounts 220 may be configured toallow the body 120 to rotate. Similar mounts or pivots, axels, pins orthe like may be used to rotatably mount the inner tray 124 to the traytable 104.

As stated, the inner tray 124 is generally configured to support or holdthe electronic device 108. This may be accomplished in various ways. Forinstance, as shown in FIG. 2A, the inner tray 124 may comprise one ormore channels 204 that accept a portion of the electronic device 108. InFIG. 2A, it can be seen that the channels 204 accept an outer peripheralportion of the electronic device 108 to hold the electronic device. Thechannels 204 may have a “U” shaped cross section to accept a peripheralportion of the electronic device 108, such as shown. Channels 204 may belocated at the sides as well as the bottom of the inner tray 124 (asshown in FIG. 2A).

In some embodiments, channels 204 may only be at the sides of the innertray 124. The channels 204 may extend around the electronic device 108to various extents. For example, as seen in FIG. 2E, the channels 204extend a further distance along the length of the left and right sidesof the electronic device 108.

The channels 204 may be configured to allow the electronic device 108 tobe removable. For example, the channels 204 have an open portion 224where the electronic device 108 may be inserted into (as well as removedfrom) the channels 204. In this manner the electronic device 108 may beremoved by pulling it out of the channels 204 and may be inserted bysliding or moving the electronic device into the channels at the openportion 224 of the channels.

It is noted that the channels 204 or a portion thereof may be curved orangled along their length such as to better secure the electronic device108 therein. Alternatively or in addition, the channels 204 may providea snug fit relative to the peripheral portion of the electronic device108 that is inserted into the channels. In this manner the electronicdevice 108 can still be removed but is less likely to accidentally comeout or fall out of the inner tray 124. In addition, since fasteners arenot required (but may be used if desired), the inner tray 124 has areduced weight while removably securing the electronic device 108.

In some embodiments, channels 204 may have one or more openings 236(e.g., weep holes) therein. In the event a liquid is spilled, theopenings will allow such liquid to escape the channels 204 to preventthe channels from “flooding”. The channels 204 can then dry and/or becleaned. Exemplary openings 236 are illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2D.

It is noted that the electronic device 108 may be removably secured tothe inner tray 124 in various ways. For example, the electronic device108 and inner tray 124 may comprise coupling or mating fasteners whichreleasably hold the electronic device to the inner tray. Alternativelyor in addition, the electronic device 108 may be removably secured tothe inner tray 124 by a friction fit or magnets.

The inner tray 124 may also have a back panel 228. As described abovewith regard to FIG. 1B, the back panel 228 or section of the inner tray124 may form a planar surface that spans the opening 112 of the traytable 104 to provide a continuous support service when the tray table isin the service position (and the inner tray is in a closed position).

FIG. 2B illustrates top angled view of the tray table 104, with theelectronic device 108 removed. The concave shape (e.g., “U” shaped crosssection) of the channels 204 that accepts the electronic device 108 canbe seen in this view.

Also it can be seen from FIG. 2B that the inner tray 124 may have one ormore interfaces or ports 208 that provides an electrical or otherconnection to the electronic device 108. As will be described furtherbelow, this is advantageous in that data and/or power may be transferredto/from the electronic device 108 via this port 208. Thus the flightcrew or airline need not worry about charging the electronic device 108directly, since the electronic device can be charged by the tray table104 itself. It is noted that a connection with the port 208 may be usedto determine if the electronic device 108 is within the inner tray 124for theft or unauthorized use detection as described above.

The port 208 may be positioned such that it automatically connects withthe electronic device 108 when the electronic device is stored in theinner tray 124. As shown for example, the port 208 is located at abottom portion of the inner tray 124 where it can automatically connectto a corresponding connector of the electronic device when theelectronic device is inserted.

Referring to FIG. 2C, the tray table 104 may also provide one or moreother ports or connectors 212,216. For example, audio, USB, power, data,and other connections could be provided via these connectors 212,216.Typically, these connectors 212,216 will be configured to allowpassenger devices, such as laptops, smart phones, tables, headphones,and the like to be connected. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2C, anaudio jack 216 and USB port 212 are provided at the side of the traytable's body 120 where they are accessible to a passenger even when theinner tray 124 is closed. It is noted that audio media and data could beaccessed/shared from the electronic device 108 via these connectors212,216 when the inner tray 124 is both closed and opened.

It is noted that the inner tray 124 may be held in a closed position bya latch 244 in some embodiments. The latch 244 may utilize a mechanicalstructure to hold the inner tray 124 closed. When actuated or otherwisemanipulated the latch 244 may release the inner tray 124 allowing it torotate to an open position. In some embodiments, the latch 244 mayutilize a friction fit or magnets which hold the inner tray 124 closedwhich can be overcome by the user to rotate the inner tray to an openposition.

The inner tray 124 may also protect the electronic device 108 in someembodiments. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2E (which shows theelectronic device 108 partially removed from the inner tray 124), theinner tray 124 may provide a cover 240 to enclose and/or protect theelectronic device 108. The cover 240 may be transparent to allow thescreen 136 of the electronic display 108 to remain visible. The cover240 may be a rugged and/or resilient material to resist shattering orbreaking. Should the screen 136 shatter or break, the cover 240 willcontain the screen within the inner tray 124. In addition, the cover 240may prevent damage to the screen 136 caused by physical impacts. It iscontemplated that the electronic device 108 may be positioned adjacentthe cover 240 such that touch screen input is operational through thecover.

In addition to the weight savings described above, the tray table 104saves a great deal of additional weight by eliminating the need forwiring. In traditional IFE systems, an aircraft must either be builtwith wiring to support (e.g., power) the IFE system at each seat or mustbe retrofitted with such wiring. This wiring adds significant weight tothe aircraft and requires inspection and certification. In the case of aretrofit, adding wiring is an extremely complex operation and requiresan aircraft to be removed from service for a substantial amount of time.

In contrast, the tray table 104 has its own power source in the form ofan internal removable battery, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. This battery 304provides power to the electronic device to power and/or recharge theelectronic device. Since the battery 304 is part of the tray table 104,there is no need to rewire or wire an aircraft to support the traytable. It is contemplated however that, if desired, the tray table 104may be connected to aircraft power systems to receive power to itselectronic device 108 though this would eliminate some of the weightsavings provided by the tray table.

It is also contemplated that the electronic device 108 may be charged invarious other ways via the tray table 104. For example, the tray table104 may charge an electronic device 108 via induction in one or moreembodiments. Alternatively or in addition, the tray table 104 (or theelectronic device 108) may have one or more solar panels for chargingpurposes or to power the electronic device. Other power sources may beused as well. For example, devices that generate electricity fromtemperature differences (e.g., thermoelectric generators) or vibration(e.g., kinetic energy electrical generators) may be used in addition toor instead of a battery 304.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3B, it can be seen that the battery 304 may haveone or more power level indicators 308, such as lights, LCD displays,and the like. These indicators 308 inform flight or maintenance crews ofhow much power is remaining in the battery 304. When low, the battery304 can be easily removed for recharging and/or replacement. Forexample, as FIG. 3B shows, the battery 304 can be ejected or otherwiseremoved from the tray table 104 quite easily.

This is advantageous in that flight crews can readily view the powerlevel of the battery 304 and change batteries as necessary. For example,during cleaning after an aircraft has landed, any low batteries 304 maybe quickly and easily identified and replaced. It is contemplated thatthe removed batteries 304 may be placed in a charger and recharged forsubsequent usage. A charger having multiple slots or receptacles toaccept multiple batteries may be used to accomplish recharging. Inaddition, such charger may be handheld or portable to function as acarrier. In this manner, low batteries 304 can be removed from each seatand placed into the charger. The charger can then be moved to a chargingarea on (or off) the aircraft to charge the low batteries in bulk.

Typically, a battery 304 will be locked into the tray table 104 toprevent passengers from removing the battery. Thus, in one or moreembodiments, a release mechanism 312 may be provided to preventunauthorized removable while allowing authorized removable of batteries304 to be quick and easy. The release mechanism 312 may accept one ormore keys or other unlocking devices/tools to operate. The batterylocking mechanism may be configured to automatically lock a battery inthe body 120 of the tray table 104 to speed the battery replacementprocess.

FIG. 3C provides an internal view of the tray table 104. As can be seen,the top half of the tray table 104 has not been illustrated to show anexemplary internal layout. As can be seen, a compartment 316 may beformed in the body 120 of the tray table 104 to accept the battery 304.This compartment 316 may be externally accessible (e.g., open to theoutside) so that the battery 304 can be removed. One or more leads orconductors 320 may provide a conduit for power to travel from thebattery 304 to the electronic device. As can be seen, a rotating mount324, pivot, or hinge of the inner tray 124 may allow the conductors 320to electrically connect to the electronic device, such as via a port ofthe inner tray (while securing the inner tray 124 to the tray table104).

In some embodiments, the battery compartment 316 may be in or attachedto the inner tray 124. In such embodiments, the battery 304 may beremovable as described above. One or more conductors 320 may connect thebattery 304 to the electronic device. In such case, since the battery304 is supported by the inner tray 124, the conductors 320 need not bendor twist when the inner tray is rotated.

It is contemplated that a switch may be provided in one or moreembodiments to automatically connect or disconnect the battery 304 fromthe electronic device. For instance, when the inner tray 124 is in aclosed position (such as in FIG. 1B), the switch may disconnect thebattery 304 to prevent battery drain. When the inner tray 124 is in anopen position (such as in FIG. 1C) the switch may reconnect the battery304 to the electronic device. The switch may be a mechanical device thatconnects and disconnects the battery 304 when the inner tray 124 ismoved from a closed position to an open position. Alternatively one ormore sensors may determine the position of the inner tray 124 andconnect/disconnect the battery 304 appropriately.

FIG. 3D is a block diagram illustrating the components of an exemplarytray table 104. In general, these components will be held within thebody 120 of the tray table. As can be seen, in one or more embodiments,the tray table 104 may comprise a controller 328, which may beconfigured to control operation of the tray table 104 and its variouscomponents to provide the functionality disclosed herein. For example,among other things, the controller 328 may be configured to charge anelectronic device 108 via a port 208, detect power levels of the traytable's battery 304, indicate the power level of the battery via anindicator 308, and/or detect the presence or absence of the electronicdevice within the inner tray via a sensor 340.

The controller 328 may be a microprocessor, integrated circuit, or othercircuit. The controller 328 may be hard wired to provide thefunctionality disclosed herein and/or may execute machine readable codeto provide the same. In some embodiments, this machine readable code maybe stored on a memory of the controller itself or a separate memorydevice 332. The memory device 332 may be used to store other informationas well, such as configuration settings, various media (such as for IFEor safety presentation purposes), and the like. The memory device 332may be optional and thus not provided in all embodiments.

As can be seen, the tray table 104 may also include one or moreaccessory devices 336. For example, a credit card reader, RFID reader,Bluetooth™ transceiver, and/or currency acceptor could be provided suchas to allow passengers to make payments for IFE services at the traytable 104. In one embodiment for example, a passenger could swipe acredit card, insert coins, bills or other currency, or pay wirelesslyvia a RFID or Bluetooth enabled device. It is noted that the Bluetoothtransceiver may also or alternatively be used to share data with otherdevices, such as wireless headsets, smart phones, laptops or the like.

FIG. 3D also illustrates a connection between a tray table 104 and theaircraft. This connection is optional and thus is not provided in allembodiments. When provided, such connection may provide electrical powerand/or data to the tray table 104 either by a wired or wirelessconnection. If wireless power is desired, such power may be provided byinduction chargers located at each passenger seat. For example, when thetray table 104 is in close proximity to the passenger seat, such as whenstowed, the tray table's battery may be charged by induction. Powerand/or data from the aircraft can be shared with the electronic device108 via the tray table's port 208.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary in-flightentertainment system having tray tables. As can be seen, a server 404may be provided to supply media and other data to the tray tables 104.The server 404 and electronic devices 108 of the tray tables 104 maycommunicate data via one or more communication links that will typicallybe wireless. Books, magazines, advertisements, video, photos, audio, webpages, and other data may be provided by the server 404 in this manner.

In addition, input from passengers collected by the electronic devices108 may be transmitted to the server 404 as well. This permitsinteractivity with the server 404. For instance, passengers may ordermedia, such as movies, songs, news or other articles from the server 404by providing input at the electronic device 108 at their seats. Sincethe server 404 may be onboard the aircraft, media distribution isefficient because the electronic devices 108 do not need to communicatewith a ground based server. It is contemplated that passengers may alsoor alternatively communicate with flight crews via the electronicdevices 108 and/or server 404. The flight crew may have their ownelectronic device to receive and respond to such communication. Forexample, text messages, audio, or video could be communicated betweenpassengers and the flight crew via the electronic devices 108 such as toorder food or request assistance. This is beneficial because the flightcrew need not move up and down the aircraft aisles to communicate withpassengers.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic devices 108 may be portablecomputing devices. An electronic device 108 may have a display 136 suchas described above to present information or media visually to apassenger. The display 136 may be an LCD, electronic paper, OLED, orother display technology capable of presenting various still images orvideo. The display 136 may have a touch sensor to detect user input atthe display. In addition or alternatively one or more other inputs suchas buttons, switches, knobs, and the like may be provided to captureuser input. The electronic device 108 may also have audio inputs and/oroutputs to provide a multimedia experience. As stated above, a passengermay utilize headphones to enjoy such an experience

It is contemplated that the display 136 may have a one or moreprotective coverings, such as to prevent it or a portion of it fromshattering upon impact. For example, the screen of the display 136 mayhave a protective film to contain any shards or pieces of the displayshould it be damaged.

The electronic device 108 may also have one or more communicationdevices, such as wired or wireless network interfaces. A communicationdevice may be used to communicate media or other data with externaldevices, such as other electronic devices 108, passenger devices (e.g.,smart phones, PDAs, laptops, tablets), the IFE server 404, etc. . . . Acommunication device may also be a data port, such as a USB port or thelike for communicating data with flash drives, human interface devices,and other peripherals.

The electronic device 108 may comprise one or more processors and haveits own storage device. The processor may execute instructions such asin the form of machine readable code to provide the media playback andinteractive functions of the electronic device described herein. Forexample, the processor may run an operating system that allows variousapplications to execute thereon to provide IFE functionality. Themachine readable code or instructions may be retrievably stored on thestorage device and/or hardwired into the processor itself.

In one or more embodiments, the electronic device 108 may haveparticular restrictions programmed therein. For example, certainfeatures may be enabled or disabled at certain times. To illustrate,during boarding, taxiing, takeoff and/or landing only advertising may bedisplayed by the electronic device 108. Once at a predefined altitude(e.g., 10,000 ft), full functionality of the electronic device 108 maybe restored. The enabling or disabling of features may be triggered byan external occurrence. For example, the server 404 (controlled by theflight crew) may instruct an electronic device 108 to enable or disablecertain features or to disable itself completely. This allows the flightcrew to override passenger input at the electronic devices, such as topresent safety presentations and/or advertising.

The tray table or features thereof may be implemented in various ways.For instance, FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an embodiment having an electronicdevice 108 at a headrest portion of the passenger seat 128. The innertray 124 in this embodiment is configured to accept the electronicdevice 108 and hold the electronic device at the headrest portion of thepassenger seat 128. A release 504 may be provided to eject or otherwiserelease the electronic device 108 from the inner tray 124. The release504 may be a click-release mechanism to allow passengers to remove theelectronic device 108. It is noted that the release 504 may beautomatically disabled at certain times, such as during takeoff andlanding to prevent unauthorized use or theft.

As can be seen from FIG. 5B, the inner tray 124 may allow the electronicdevice 108 to pivot to provide a better viewing angle for a passenger.In addition, as shown in FIG. 5C, the inner tray 124 may allow theelectronic device 108 to be completely removed for handheld use.

The features described above with regard to the tray table may beprovided in a headrest mounted embodiment. For example, the inner tray124 or the passenger seat 128 itself may house one or more removablebatteries to provide power to the electronic device 108. In addition oralternatively, the passenger seat 128 may be wired to the aircraft powersystem to provide power to the electronic device 108.

In addition, one or more sensors, switches, ports, or the like may beused to detect the presence or absence of the electronic device 108within the inner tray, such as described above. If the electronic device108 is not within the docking station 124 at particular times, an alertmay be generated. As stated above, this feature is useful in preventingtheft and unauthorized use.

It is contemplated that in some embodiments the electronic device 108need not be stored in an inner tray 124. For instance, the electronicdevice 108 could be stored in a seat pocket of the passenger seat 128similar to a magazine or safety pamphlet. In such embodiments, one ormore sensors, switches, ports, or the like may be used to determine thepresence or absence of the electronic device 108 within the seat pocketto prevent theft or unauthorized use. It is noted that the inner tray124 could be provided within the seat pocket or replace the seat pocketin some embodiments.

Alternatively or in addition, a charging cable may be provided so thatthe electronic device 108 may be connected to a battery 304 of the innertray 124 or at the passenger seat 128. The charging cable could also beused to transfer power from the aircraft's wiring to the electronicdevice 108 such as in embodiments where power is wired to the passengerseats 128. Once connected to the charging cable, the electronic device108 may be stored in a seat pocket or inner tray.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many moreembodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scopeof this invention. In addition, the various features, elements, andembodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in anycombination or arrangement.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tray table for a passenger seat comprising: abody having a compartment for a battery; an inner tray configured toreceive and hold a portable electronic device, the portable electronicdevice having a display screen; a port attached to the inner trayconfigured to connect to the portable electronic device, wherein thebattery is in electrical communication with the portable electronicdevice via the port; an opening in the body configured to accept theinner tray, the inner tray rotatably mounted in the opening; and one ormore mounts configured to attach the body to a back portion of thepassenger seat.
 2. The tray table for a passenger seat of claim 1further comprising a sensor configured to detect the presence or absenceof the portable electronic device in the inner tray.
 3. The tray tablefor a passenger seat of claim 2, wherein the tray table emits an alertif the sensor detects that the portable electronic device is absent fromthe inner tray.
 4. The tray table for a passenger seat of claim 1,wherein the battery is rechargeable.
 5. The tray table for a passengerseat of claim 1, wherein the battery is removable from the body.
 6. Thetray table for a passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the inner trayincludes a transparent cover to protect the display screen.
 7. The traytable for a passenger seat of claim 1, wherein the body is rotatablymounted to the passenger seat.
 8. A tray table for a passenger seatcomprising: a body having a an opening therein; one or more mountsconfigured to rotatably attach the body to a back portion of thepassenger seat, wherein the body may be moved between a stowed positionand a service position relative to the passenger seat; and an inner trayconfigured to hold a portable electronic device, the inner trayrotatably mounted in the opening, wherein the inner tray may be rotatedto between an open position and a closed position when the body is inthe service position.
 9. The tray table for a passenger seat of claim 8,wherein a back panel of the inner tray is coplanar with a top surface ofthe body when the inner tray is in the closed position.
 10. The traytable for a passenger seat of claim 8, wherein a display screen of theportable electronic device is visible through one end of the opening inthe body when the inner tray is in the closed position.
 11. The traytable for a passenger seat of claim 8 further comprising a power sourcein electrical communication with a port of the inner tray to providepower to the portable electronic device, the power source selected fromthe group consisting of a solar panel, thermoelectric generator, andkinetic energy electrical generator.
 12. The tray table for a passengerseat of claim 8 further comprising a battery compartment in the body inelectrical communication with a port of the inner tray to provide powerto the portable electronic device, wherein the battery compartmentreleasably holds one or more batteries.
 13. The tray table for apassenger seat of claim 12 further comprising an indicator supported bythe body, the indicator configured to indicate a charge level of one ormore batteries in the battery compartment.
 14. The tray table for apassenger seat of claim 8 further comprising a sensor configured todetect when the portable electronic device is absent from the innertray.
 15. The tray table for a passenger seat of claim 14 furthercomprising communication device configured to transmit a notificationwhen the sensor detects the portable electronic device is absent fromthe inner tray.
 16. A method for providing in-flight entertainment witha tray table comprising: securing a tray table to a passenger seat withone or more mounts, the tray table comprising an opening having arotatable inner tray secured therein; receiving a portable electronicdevice with the inner tray, the portable electronic device comprising adisplay screen for providing the in-flight entertainment; securing theportable electronic device to the tray table with the inner tray,wherein the portable electronic device is rotatable when held by theinner tray; and providing power to the portable electronic devicethrough one or more batteries in a compartment of the tray table whenthe portable electronic device is held by the inner tray.
 17. The methodof claim 16 further comprising providing a media server configured toprovide in-flight entertainment material via electronic communicationwith the portable electronic device.
 18. The method of claim 16 furthercomprising transmitting a notification from the tray table when theportable electronic device is not being held by the inner tray.
 19. Themethod of claim 16 further comprising ejecting the one or more batteriesfrom the compartment with a release mechanism of the compartment toreplace the batteries.
 20. The method of claim 16 further comprisingproviding a power level indicator configured to indicate the power levelof the one or more batteries in the compartment.